26-03-2025
Rapid strike: US military's light vehicles can now fire HIMARS rockets from anywhere
Oshkosh Defense is making a significant impression by showcasing its next-generation vehicle that can fire rockets at the Association of the United States Army's (AUSA) Global Force Symposium from March 25 to 27, 2025.
The defense contractor is presenting its Remotely Operated Ground Unit for Expeditionary Fires (ROGUE-Fires), an advanced platform designed to enhance military capabilities through advanced autonomous technology.
This year marks the first public demonstration of ROGUE-Fires, which can fire the Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) Family of Munitions (MFOM) - the same munitions that the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) can fire.
The hybrid platform is flexible enough to support a variety of mission-critical payloads, including long-range precision fires, autonomous resupply, and logistics functions, all aimed at boosting operational effectiveness in challenging environments.
Oshkosh's ROGUE-Fires is built on the proven Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) chassis and features an adaptable powertrain that can be configured for hybrid-electric operation.
This capability allows for silent drive and silent watch modes, which enhance stealth and fuel efficiency while providing additional power to support various missions.
Pat Williams, chief programs officer at Oshkosh Defense, expressed enthusiasm about the platform's capabilities.
"At AUSA Global Force, we're emphasizing ROGUE-Fires with MFOM to demonstrate its potential to deliver operationally relevant surface-to-surface fire support," he said.
Williams also highlighted the company's commitment to contributing to the U.S. Army's evolution towards the Army of 2030, where effectively integrating human and machine capabilities will be essential.
Oshkosh Defense has been expanding its portfolio of autonomy-ready tactical vehicles, including the FMTV A2 launcher and Palletized Load System (PLS) A2.
These vehicles incorporate advanced drive-by-wire technology that supports modernization and enhances the safety of personnel in varied and dynamic battlefield conditions.
Oshkosh is leveraging its extensive experience to create versatile autonomous platforms as military operations evolve.
Williams noted that these innovations are crucial for meeting emerging threats and ensuring troops maintain operational superiority in diverse settings.
In a significant development earlier this year, Oshkosh Defense secured a $29.9 million contract modification to integrate next-generation technology into ROGUE-Fires further.
This initiative will see deliveries start in 2025, a move recognized by the Marine Corps Systems Command as pivotal for enhancing the Marine Corps' operational capabilities, particularly in seizing and defending strategic maritime territories.
The project will be executed in partnership with Forterra, a firm specializing in ground-based autonomy.
The ROGUE-Fires system aims to bolster the Marine Corps' sea denial strategies, enabling more effective multi-domain operations against potential adversaries.
Its autonomous technology is designed to provide flexibility and resilience in contested areas, reducing the reliance on human intervention in high-risk environments.
This capability is essential for improving battlefield effectiveness and lethality in regions such as the Indo-Pacific Command.
Oshkosh's collaboration with industry partners like Forterra is key to ensuring that U.S. forces are equipped with the tools to navigate modern combat landscapes.
"Through our enduring relationship with the Marine Corps and collaboration with leading tech partners, we strive to deliver solutions that enhance operational readiness," Williams stated.
"ROGUE-Fires is designed to support the Marine Corps' modernization agendas, including innovative formations and a responsive force structure that can counter evolving threats."
This latest initiative underscores Oshkosh Defense's dedication to advancing military technology while fostering partnerships that enhance the capabilities of U.S. armed forces in increasingly complex operational theaters.
